VETIVER SYSTEMS HAWAII |
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| Effective, Economical, Environmentally-Responsible EROSION CONTROL |
How does Vetiver stop soil erosion and stabilize slopes?
Installed in horizontal rows on the slope contour, Vetiver is an effective vegetative barrier. Its densely-grouped stiff leaves slow the velocity of water and trap soil, sediment, and debris that would otherwise slide off the slope. Vetiver's dense, fibrous roots hold moisture in the soil and conserve topsoil and plant nutrients that otherwise would be swept away. This short video illustrates the way that Vetiver halts soil erosion: |
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Vetiver’s strong, deep root system anchors soil. The tensile strength of Vetiver’s massive roots is equal to one sixth of mild steel reinforcement (Mpa 750). The roots improve the shear strength of soil by 30 to 40%, earning Vetiver its reputation as “the green nail.” (Actually, the security of the system more closely resembles that of a screw but, with a nod toward social propriety, let's call it a nail.)
Vetiver is a proven solution to erosion and compromised slopes. Used worldwide to prevent landslides and erosion, it’s simple, effective, economical, and environmentally appealing.
How does Vetiver compare to alternatives?
People use a variety of different methods to stop soil erosion and stabilize slopes. Some solutions are fixed, and others are organic. Some methods can be used together.
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Rigid systems are limited. |
As an organic solution, |
| Vetiver Systems actually relieve stresses! |
Conventional engineering methods use earthworks and engineered construction, including rock and reinforced concrete structures, sprayed-on concrete, gabions, steel gates, chain link, and fences. Fixed structures are typically expensive to install, brittle, frequently require costly repairs and maintenance, and can be ineffective and unsustainable, not to mention unsightly.
On the other hand, permanent vegetative barriers like Vetiver provide an attractive, effective, and affordable alternative. Planted in rows on the contour, Vetiver’s dense hedge and mass of fibrous roots creates an impenetrable barrier that halts the passage of topsoil and debris, and dramatically slows the passage of water. By anchoring the soil and slowing rainwater velocity, Vetiver reduces rilling and gullying, prevents landslides, stabilizes steep slopes, and halts erosion. Vetiver also offers aesthetic and environmental advantages, at a fraction of the cost of fixed structures.
Have you priced alternatives??? Consider Honolulu prices, in 2009 dollars, for the following conventional barriers:
Barrier (10'Wide x 6'Tall) |
Price |
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| Wood fence | $600 |
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| Hollow tile (CMU) | $1000 |
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| Rock wall | $1500 |
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| Retaining wall | $2000 |
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These prices do not include the cost of obtaining building permits (or the delays inherent in the permitting system), architect or engineer stamps, and other associated expenses. Oh, and don't forget to tack on a tiny premium for a contractor to excavate and install 10'-plus footings...
In most cases, Vetiver is the superior organic alternative. Mature Vetiver hedges keep weeds and undesirable grasses at bay, and retain moisture and plant nutrients. They survive earthquakes, monsoons, hurricanes, grazing, extreme heat, drought, and extended submergence. Vetiver grows year-round, harbors no pests or diseases, and does not migrate.
Does Vetiver have any other advantages?
Yes! Unlike other vegetative barriers, Vetiver is not fussy about its host site. It grows in saline and sodic conditions, and even in acid sulphate or pure laterite soils. Since it even survives fire (generating new shoots within days following fire), Vetiver is an effective firebreak in its green state.
Vetiver resists drought, submergence, fire, windstorms, and grazing. It thrives in sunny, damp conditions. It improves the quality of soil by retaining moisture, halting and replenishing nutrient loss, and improving the quality of ground water. Vetiver rows are narrow (2’ wide) and do not compete with adjacent crops.
Curious? Convinced? Time for a Consultation???
Call us: 808-536-5444
Vetiver Systems...rooted in Hawaii.
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